Now I Belong to Jesus

"Now I Belong to Jesus" is a deeply personal and affirming hymn composed by Norman J. Clayton in 1943. Known for both its simple melody and doctrinal clarity, this hymn expresses the believer's joyful realization of eternal belonging to Christ. The song was birthed from Clayton's desire to write music that could be sung with clear theological conviction. It conveys a powerful message of assurance and security in Christ, emphasizing the permanence of salvation through faith.

The lyrics celebrate a profound truth in the Christian life — that those who have trusted in Christ are His forever. This is not based on emotion or performance, but upon the finished work of Christ who loved us and gave Himself for us. The hymn builds on Scripture’s promises that nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39) and that, once we are in Christ, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit unto the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14).

Each verse contrasts life before Christ with life after conversion. The first verse describes how the singer once lived in darkness and fear, but has now been brought into light and peace by Jesus. The chorus serves as a strong refrain of ownership and joy: “Now I belong to Jesus, Jesus belongs to me — not for the years of time alone, but for eternity.” These lines beautifully encapsulate the gospel's eternal dimension and the comfort it brings to the believer.

Norman J. Clayton was a self-taught musician and organist who wrote over 75 hymns. He considered "Now I Belong to Jesus" his most important work. As a man who valued both the musical and theological integrity of hymns, Clayton ensured that every line pointed back to Christ's sufficiency. His love for the Word of God and careful attention to scriptural truth shine through in the hymn’s construction and message.

"Now I Belong to Jesus" remains widely sung in evangelical churches and continues to bring assurance to those who sing it in times of both triumph and trial. Its enduring power lies in the unshakable truth it proclaims — that believers are not their own, but are joyfully and eternally the possession of their loving Savior.